How to remove lint from Velcro is a common problem, apparently. In response to a reader’s query about dealing with the hairy situation, I have been inundated with solutions.

Chris Carpenter, a wardrobe specialist with Broadway shows, recommends using a seam ripper, available where sewing supplies are sold.

Margaret Barker, a nurse who works nights, spends her down time hooking lint from the Velcro fasteners on blood-pressure cuffs with a long sewing needle. Tedious but workable, I guess.

Ellie in DeLand, Fla., says pressing Scotch tape into the Velcro will lift out most of the trapped lint.

A number of readers suggest using a fine-tooth comb of some kind, including a pet comb for removing fleas from cats and a lice comb for scraping lice nits and eggs from human heads. Also recommended: an old toothbrush or a soft-bristle hairbrush.

Equestrians use small brass brushes to clean the Velcro on their riding equipment, says Juadonna Henry. Tack shops sell the brushes, but any small brass brush from a hardware or dime store is a less-expensive option. “Just be careful not to stick yourself with the sharp bristles,” she warns.

And tweezers were Kay Conroy’s weapon of choice when lint and loose threads got caught in the Velcro fly fasteners of her husband’s gym shorts. After she had removed all the debris, “I informed him, from now on he was to close the fly opening after removing the garment,” she says. Problem solved.

Toppers for kaftans

Q: I see the kaftan-style tunic tops we used to wear with our jeans in the 1970s are back in vogue. What are they worn with this time around?

A: When wearing a kaftan, think proportion: full over fitted, long over short. The loose fit of a kaftan works well with trim bottoms — trim Bermuda shorts, capri pants or jeans. Belted, they also make fun toppers for straight skirts.

Like the classic ’70s styles, the modern versions often are embellished with embroidery, beads or sequins. Over skinny jeans or, especially, leggings with shine, they’re great for evening. Add cute sandals, and you’re good to go.

Lost and found

Lost: Sandy needs help finding a half-inch brush-style curling iron, as well as a disposable dishrag infused with soap, which she says is great for cleaning outdoor grills.

Don is trying to track down golf shorts by Higgins Slacks Co., which have a unique expanding waistband.

Victor is trying to find linens made for sofa-bed mattresses, which are just 5 inches deep.

Found: Good news for Audrey, who is looking for plus-size, A-line robes with a zip or snap front. Readers have spotted them in JCPenney stores and online at jcpenney.com . Another reader suggests catalogs such as Roamans (800-459-1025, roamans.com ), OneStopPlus (800-400-4481, onestopplus.com ) and Woman Within (800-228-3120, womanwithin.com ).

Aimee can find clear, adhesive, reusable Shoe Angels, to protect her heels, while driving at myshoeangels.com .

Marissa can find Tri Swim shampoo, conditioner and body wash, which removes chlorine, at tri-swim.com .

Ocoee reader Libby should be able to find Ken Paves hair-styling tools at Ulta stores.

---

Copyright ©2026— Trib Total Media, LLC (TribLIVE.com)

---